quintessential

adjective

ˌkwin-tə-ˈsen(t)-shəl How to pronounce quintessential (audio)
Definition of quintessentialnext
as in classic
constituting, serving as, or worthy of being a pattern to be imitated Helen of Troy was supposedly the quintessential beauty of the ancient world

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of quintessential The image is powerful — a dog sprinting across green grass, the quintessential picture of canine happiness. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 6 July 2026 Fireworks have been a quintessential part of Fourth of July celebrations across the nation for generations. — Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 4 July 2026 Benjamin Moore, Ewing Blue, CW-585 For those looking for a quintessential porch ceiling color, Benjamin Moore's Ewing Blue is a sure bet. — Elizabeth Sweet, Southern Living, 4 July 2026 Roland Emmerich's alien-invasion flick has endured as a quintessential summer blockbuster. — Maggie Fremont, Entertainment Weekly, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for quintessential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for quintessential
  1. classic
  2. exemplary
  3. perfect
  4. archetypal
  5. definitive
  6. excellent
Adjective
  • Beyond the operational improvements Danaher is famous for, there is a classic David-versus-Goliath story waiting in the wings that could hand Danaher and investors a nice kicker.
    — Harvey Stober, CNBC, 16 July 2026
  • The Hailey Jeans, which launched today, include denim staples in two characteristically relaxed fits—two fresh takes on the brand’s classic jeans styles, taking inspiration from her favorite vintage Gap pairs.
    — Sophie Donovan, Glamour, 16 July 2026
Definition of classic
Adjective
  • The parents, represented by the law firm Rosen Saba, demand a jury trial, exemplary and punitive damages and civil and statutory penalties.
    — Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 9 July 2026
  • This form makes the book startlingly original, an exemplary modernist novel in its redefinition of storytelling.
    — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 9 July 2026
Definition of exemplary
Adjective
  • From there, the acceleration and timing of his run are perfect to meet Saka’s clipped cross at the back post.
    — Thom Harris, New York Times, 13 July 2026
  • The pool is also fit with a complete outdoor kitchen and pavilion, perfect for a barbecue.
    — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 July 2026
Definition of perfect
Adjective
  • Lestat remembers himself like a bit of an archetypal fairytale babe in the woods in the recounting of his human life.
    — Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 22 June 2026
  • Just over two miles south of the historic village of Tintagel, Trebarwith is a wild, archetypal north‑coast beach—a mile‑long sweep of golden sand and rocky outcrops visible only at low tide.
    — Lewis Nunn, Forbes.com, 19 June 2026
Definition of archetypal
Adjective
  • The letter of intent remains non-binding, and there is no guarantee the parties will reach a definitive agreement.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 10 July 2026
  • For an album that feels like a major artistic statement, almost none of the songs have a single definitive version.
    — Harry Tafoya, Pitchfork, 9 July 2026
Definition of definitive
Adjective
  • Rocket is known for its excellent customer service and easy-to-use website and mobile app.
    — Kelsey Neubauer, CNBC, 13 July 2026
  • Bagworm is excellent and I am thrilled Oscilloscope will be bringing this cinematic fever dream to a theater near you.
    — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 13 July 2026
Definition of excellent

Browse Nearby Words

quintessences
quintessential
quintet
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Cite this Entry

“Quintessential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/quintessential. Accessed 20 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on quintessential

Nglish: Translation of quintessential for Spanish Speakers

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